29 Jan 2019 | 02:28 AM UTC
Syria: IS militants kill 20 Syrian soldiers near Al-Mayadin January 27
Islamic State (IS) militants kill 20 Syrian government soldiers near Al-Mayadin (Deir Al-Zor province), according to media reports published January 27; similar attacks possible over the coming weeks
Event
Islamic State (IS) militants launched an attack on Syrian government troops south of Al-Mayadin (Deir Al-Zor province), according to media reports on Sunday, January 27, killing 20 government soldiers. Similar IS attacks targeting Syrian government forces are possible in Deir Al-Zor province over the coming weeks.
Context
To date, the Syrian Civil War - which began in 2011 - involves many parties, including the Syrian government, the Russian government, the Iranian government, the Turkish government, a US-led coalition, and numerous armed groups on the ground (including the Islamic State) with competing goals.
Advice
Due to extremely poor security conditions, Western governments generally advise against all travel to Syria, with some banning travel to the country. Professional security advice and support should be sought prior to any travel to Syria.
